--- title: Best Mac posts of 2025 | daily.dev description: The most upvoted Mac posts of 2025, curated by the daily.dev community. canonical: https://daily.dev/tags/mac/best-of/2025 twitter:card: summary_large_image twitter:site: @dailydotdev og:url: https://daily.dev/tags/mac/best-of/2025 og:type: website og:site_name: daily.dev og:title: Best Mac posts of 2025 | daily.dev og:description: The most upvoted Mac posts of 2025, curated by the daily.dev community. og:image: https://media.daily.dev/image/upload/s--VAY5ToZt--/f_auto/v1724209435/public/daily.dev%20-%20open%20graph --- # Best of Mac — 2025 1. 1 [](/posts/choosing-an-os-in-2025-a-scientific-flowchart-0eprdbzid "💻 Choosing an OS in 2025: A Scientific Flowchart") Article Dev World · 1y 💻 Choosing an OS in 2025: A Scientific Flowchart A humorous flowchart breaks down how people actually choose their operating systems in 2025, suggesting that decisions are often based on personal preferences, lifestyle factors, and financial considerations rather than technical specifications or features. 400 59 2. 2 [](/posts/your-remote-desktop-sucks-try-this-instead-free-open-source--7fjkxys8p "Your Remote Desktop SUCKS!! Try this instead (FREE + Open Source)") Video NetworkChuck · 2y Your Remote Desktop SUCKS!! Try this instead (FREE + Open Source) A new open-source remote desktop solution supports Windows, Mac, and Linux and can be hosted personally, eliminating the need for costly RDP services. This solution addresses limitations of RDP, such as requiring Windows Pro and providing non-native performance for remote access across different networks. Alternatives like Guacamole, KasmVNC, and RustDesk offer diverse functionalities, with RustDesk being particularly praised for its features, performance, and hosting flexibility. 190 5 3. 3 [](/posts/my-favourite-command-line-tools-ceewpnj7h "My favourite command-line tools") Article Community Picks · 2y My favourite command-line tools This post details the author's favorite command-line tools that are installed on every machine they use. The tools include tmux, zsh, bat, eza, fzf, git-branch-i, jq, and neovim. The author explains their use cases and highlights the key features that make these tools indispensable. The post also notes the various methods used to install these tools across macOS, Arch Linux, and Windows. 141 7 4. 4 [](/posts/programmers-don-t-use-windows--8cmp3anti "Programmers, Don't Use Windows!") Article Yegor's Blog · 50w Programmers, Don't Use Windows! Unix-based systems like macOS provide programmers with powerful abstractions—everything is a file, processes connect through pipelines, and command-line tools compose naturally. Windows evolved from DOS with GUI-centric design, lacking the unified file abstraction and shell pipeline philosophy that has proven effective since the 1970s. The command line exposes logic as text that can be automated, combined, and version-controlled, while GUI interactions remain ephemeral and non-composable. 125 74 5. 5 [](/posts/nova-the-beautiful-fast-flexible-native-mac-code-editor-nhfozslyg "Nova: The beautiful, fast, flexible, native Mac Code Editor") Article Product Hunt · 1y Nova: The beautiful, fast, flexible, native Mac Code Editor Nova is a native Mac code editor developed by Panic, emphasizing Mac-specific design and performance over cross-platform compatibility. It features deep Mac integration, custom text layout engine, flexible workflows, built-in terminals, and extension API. The editor focuses on traditional hand-typed coding rather than AI-assisted development, positioning itself as a modern alternative to cross-platform editors like VS Code. 102 8 6. 6 [](/posts/one-line-of-code-that-did-cost-8-000-vjjs9cgqb "One line of code that did cost $8,000") Article Hacker News · 1y One line of code that did cost $8,000 Screen Studio, a macOS screen recorder app, inadvertently generated 2 petabytes of network traffic on Google Cloud due to a bug in its auto-updater. The issue arose from a missing code line that failed to stop downloads after the update file was obtained, causing repeated downloads every 5 minutes. This led to significant financial costs and user consequences, highlighting the importance of setting cloud alerts and carefully managing auto-updater codes. 100 7 7. 7 [](/posts/2025-the-year-of-the-linux-desktop-2dv1nhql8 "2025 The Year Of The Linux Desktop") Video ThePrimeTime · 52w 2025 The Year Of The Linux Desktop Microsoft is removing workarounds for creating local accounts in Windows 11, forcing users to sign in with Microsoft accounts. Combined with ads in the start menu and privacy concerns around Copilot, developers are increasingly frustrated with Windows. Meanwhile, Apple's recent UI quality has declined. Linux distributions like Omachi with Hyperland offer smooth, customizable developer experiences that rival or exceed macOS, making 2025 potentially the year developers seriously consider switching to Linux. 98 11 8. 8 [](/posts/bash-vs-zsh-key-differences-and-when-to-use-each-ckoiga8tl "Bash vs. Zsh: Key differences and when to use each") Article LogRocket · 2y Bash vs. Zsh: Key differences and when to use each Bash and Zsh are powerful Unix-based command-line shells. Bash, known for its simplicity and speed, is the default shell on most Linux systems and offers strong scripting capabilities. Zsh, with advanced customization and interactivity, is the default shell on macOS since Catalina and supports plugins through Oh My Zsh. Both shells can be run on macOS, Linux, and Windows, allowing users to select based on their preferences and system requirements. 93 4 9. 9 [](/posts/how-to-set-up-macos-as-a-development-machine-fwdffwhdx "How To Set up MacOS as a Development Machine") Article The New Stack · 1y How To Set up MacOS as a Development Machine Setting up macOS for development involves installing essential tools like Homebrew for package management, choosing a better terminal application, and configuring development environments. Key steps include switching shells if needed, installing Git, setting up window management tools like Rectangle, and installing development tools such as Node.js through NVM and Docker. The process leverages macOS's Unix-like foundation and extensive tool availability to create a productive development environment. 91 3 10. 10 [](/posts/pearos-is-a-linux-that-falls-rather-close-to-the-apple-tree-bapejfymj "pearOS is a Linux that falls rather close to the Apple tree") Article The Register · 42w pearOS is a Linux that falls rather close to the Apple tree pearOS is a Romanian Linux distribution that revives the concept of the original 2011 Pear Linux, now built on Arch Linux and KDE Plasma 6.5.4 with heavy macOS-style theming. It features a working global menu bar, custom Settings app resembling iOS style, and GNOME Files instead of Dolphin, though many advertised features like Focus Mode and Pear Intelligence aren't yet implemented. The custom installer has limitations including whole-drive installation only (no dual-boot partitioning) and requires 12GB disk space and 1.2GB RAM at idle. 87 9 11. 11 [](/posts/how-i-setup-new-macbooks-jheekc0jr "How I Setup New MacBooks") Article Community Picks · 1y How I Setup New MacBooks Setting up a new MacBook can be tedious. Learn how to streamline the process using Brewfiles to install apps, command line utilities, and fonts in bulk, and macOS defaults to customize system settings. Enhance terminal productivity with favorite Zsh plugins and aliases. 81 5 12. 12 [](/posts/the-year-on-linux-2mtz8f8dl "The Year on Linux") Article David Heinemeier Hansson · 2y The Year on Linux Switching from Apple to Linux, Neovim, and Framework felt challenging initially but ultimately liberating. While the author believes Linux might be ideal for developers, they acknowledge that personal preferences, resistance to change, and practical needs are valid reasons to stick with Apple. Advocacy for such transitions should be modest as pushing too hard can generate resentment. 79 16 13. 13 [](/posts/smart-tools-that-let-me-spend-more-time-coding-eohstkf5b "Smart Tools That Let Me Spend More Time Coding") Article Atomic Spin · 1y Smart Tools That Let Me Spend More Time Coding The post highlights four smart tools that enhance coding productivity by minimizing time spent on non-coding tasks. Tools like zoxide, Rectangle, Raycast, and Vim keybindings are featured for their ability to streamline navigation, window management, and text editing. These tools help developers maintain focus and improve efficiency by reducing friction and maximizing keyboard use. 76 3 14. 14 [](/posts/windows-isn-t-an-os-it-s-a-bad-habit-bordering-on-addiction-livetlopp "Windows isn't an OS, it's a bad habit bordering on addiction") Article The Register · 1y Windows isn't an OS, it's a bad habit bordering on addiction This opinion piece argues that Windows has become more of a bad habit than a useful operating system, with Microsoft pushing unwanted updates and monetization strategies onto users. It suggests exploring alternatives like macOS and Linux, which offer varying degrees of freedom and user experience. The article encourages users to plan for a detox from Windows dependency and consider other platforms that align with future technological trends. 74 28 15. 15 [](/posts/claude-code-is-my-computer-11fbljaex "Claude Code is My Computer") Article Community Picks · 1y Claude Code is My Computer A developer shares their experience using Claude Code with full system permissions for two months, demonstrating how it transformed their workflow from simple coding assistance to complete system automation. The setup handles everything from content migration and code commits to system configuration and machine setup, saving approximately an hour daily despite potential security risks. 73 7 16. 16 [](/posts/peeknote---lightweight-always-on-top-notes-for-devs-multitaskers-azgmaeab0 "PeekNote - Lightweight always-on-top notes for devs & multitaskers") Article Product Hunt · 2y PeekNote - Lightweight always-on-top notes for devs & multitaskers PeekNote is a lightweight macOS app designed to keep notes and code snippets always within reach without cluttering the screen. It features always-on-top functionality, quick copy/paste, color-coded tabs for organization, and a lightweight design that ensures fast performance. Ideal for developers and multitaskers. 71 2 17. 17 [](/posts/kagehq-port-kill-a-lightweight-mac-status-bar-development-port-monitor-ori5nsaym "kagehq/port-kill: A lightweight mac status bar development port monitor") Article Hacker News · 1y kagehq/port-kill: A lightweight mac status bar development port monitor Port Kill is a macOS status bar application built in Rust that monitors development processes running on ports 2000-6000\. It provides real-time process detection every 5 seconds, displays a color-coded status indicator (green for 0 processes, red for 1-9, orange for 10+), and allows users to terminate processes individually or all at once through a context menu. The app uses lsof commands for process detection and implements graceful termination with SIGTERM followed by SIGKILL if needed. 59 1 18. 18 [](/posts/a-mac-like-experience-on-linux-e8iugrh2o "A Mac-like experience on Linux") Article Lobsters · 1y A Mac-like experience on Linux A detailed comparison of desktop environments for Mac users switching to Linux. The author argues that KDE Plasma, not GNOME, provides a more Mac-like experience with its dock-style panel, system tray, desktop icons, window management buttons, and extensive customization options. GNOME prioritizes minimal distraction over Mac-style workflows, lacking key features like a persistent dock, global menu, and desktop file management. For users leaving macOS for reasons other than seeking simplicity, Plasma offers familiar UI patterns and functionality while maintaining first-party support for customization. 58 22 19. 19 [](/posts/upgrading-an-m4-pro-mac-mini-s-storage-for-half-the-price-jebjfxiug "Upgrading an M4 Pro Mac mini's storage for half the price") Article Jeff Geerling · 1y Upgrading an M4 Pro Mac mini's storage for half the price The M4 Pro Mac mini now has third-party storage upgrade options available. A 4TB upgrade costs $699 compared to Apple's $1,200 option, offering significant savings. The upgrade process involves removing the rear cover, replacing the proprietary SSD module, and performing a DFU restore using another Mac. Performance testing shows the upgraded 4TB module delivers better write speeds than the stock 512GB drive due to more flash chips distributing write activity. The internal storage consistently outperforms external Thunderbolt 5 drives for sustained transfers. 56 20. 20 [](/posts/prepare-your-mac-for-go-development-nla3h2jtm "Prepare Your Mac for Go Development") Article The New Stack · 1y Prepare Your Mac for Go Development This guide helps get your Mac ready for Go development, covering system configurations, installation of necessary software, and recommended tools. It includes steps to install Go using Homebrew, setting up a virtual machine, and configuring a terminal. It also recommends IDEs for Go and discusses their features and benefits. 56 4 21. 21 [](/posts/tailscale-s-windowed-macos-ui-is-now-in-beta-xa8eyhtdc "Tailscale’s windowed macOS UI is now in beta") Article Tailscale · 1y Tailscale’s windowed macOS UI is now in beta Tailscale has released a beta windowed macOS application that complements the existing menu bar interface. The new UI provides enhanced features including device search, better error handling, debugging tools, and improved feature discovery. Key features include a searchable device list, exit node management, troubleshooting information with visual error indicators, and a mini player mode for streamlined usage. The windowed app runs alongside the menu bar version and requires enabling through the admin console's feature previews section. 55 1 22. 22 [](/posts/the-cool-blog-go4to9qy4 "The Cool Blog") Article Lobsters · 2y The Cool Blog The author's journey with macOS began in school, using machines from iMacs to MacBooks but with limited exploration outside a restrictive environment. Their deeper engagement began with Hackintoshing, starting with a Dell Inspiron that ultimately succeeded post 2020 lockdown. The post covers the intricate details and issues of Hackintoshing, from USB port limits to configuring ACPI patches. Through attempts on multiple laptops, the author shares their challenges and the knowledge gained from making macOS run on incompatible hardware. Despite the end of Hackintoshing looming with Apple's switch to ARM, the author appreciates the learning experience it provided. 48 1 23. 23 [](/posts/why-i-use-only-one-monitor-wz7g202gx "Why I Use Only One Monitor") Video Josean Martinez · 49w Why I Use Only One Monitor A developer shares their transition from multi-monitor setups to a single 27-inch display, citing ergonomic benefits and reduced neck pain. The workflow relies on keyboard shortcuts via Raycast and window management tools to quickly switch between applications and workspaces. This approach eliminates physical screen switching, improves focus by displaying one application at a time, and creates a minimal desk setup. The solution works particularly well on macOS, though the author plans to explore Linux tiling window managers for potentially better results. 48 14 24. 24 [](/posts/peeknote-lightweight-always-on-top-notes-for-devs-multitaskers-clmqhcmuv "PeekNote: Lightweight always-on-top notes for devs & multitaskers") Article Product Hunt · 1y PeekNote: Lightweight always-on-top notes for devs & multitaskers PeekNote is a lightweight macOS application that provides always-on-top notes functionality for developers and multitaskers. The app allows users to copy, paste, and organize text with features like color-coded tabs and blocks, making it easy to keep code snippets, notes, and tasks instantly accessible while working. 48 25. 25 [](/posts/freeing-space-on-a-mac-pqcu7nsua "Freeing space on a Mac") Article Flavio Copes · 1y Freeing space on a Mac The author discusses using OmniDiskSweeper to free up space on a MacBook's hard drive. They highlight the importance of identifying and deleting unnecessary files such as old Homebrew packages, folders from uninstalled apps, and cache files from video editing tools. 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